Bring it On Holiday Season, I'm Still Being Healthy: Part 2

How’s the holiday season going, ladies?

The pandemic is still going on, but hey, there are some of us that are traveling for the holidays.

And we all know traveling isn’t easy. 

So, I wanted to share some holiday travel tips that have helped others (myself included!) 

Tip 1. Get a full night’s rest 

Seriously, get the packing and other preparations done early. Doesn’t matter if it’s two or three nights before your travel date- it helps! That way on the night before you travel, you'll have a good nights rest before you travel. 

The perks: 

  • You’re less likely to be slugging through the airport with fatigue and a headache.

  • You’re less likely to be driving drowsy on the road. 

  • And on arrival to your destination, you’re ready to enjoy the festivities. 

Tip 2. Stay active 

Exercise will boost your energy and mood while traveling. Wear comfy shoes during your travels.

  • That way, you can walk around the airport tunnel instead of sitting down and waiting to board. Hopefully. you don't have to sprint to your gate (but hey, the comfy shoes work here too!)

Tip 3. Stay tuned

Have a little down time or wait time while you’re sitting in the airport lounge?

  • Listen to some relaxing tunes and practice some deep breathing.

  • Or here’s another idea: If your body’s feeling tight, have a moment to yourself and do a brief body scan. Stretch it out/have a mini yoga session. 

Tip 4. Know what you're gonna eat

Wanna know how to avoid being stuck with unhealthy fast-food options or encountering the decisive battle of “what to eat?” Plan your meals in advance.

  • Know what options are along the way (either at the terminal or along the road).

  • Another easy option: Whether flying or driving, pack healthy snacks. Some options: low-sugar bars, your favorite nut variety, fruit, a light sandwich. The world is yours.

Ok so you’ve arrived to your destination and you’re likely having a feast for dinner.

Tip 5.  Take it easy during dinner

Hey I've been there, I want to load up on my favorites (especially if I’m starving). Here's a general rule of thumb to yield a wholesome plate and still enjoy the goodies:

  • Practice portion control and aim for your plate to consist of: 70-80% fresh/steamed veggies and 20%-30% of everything else.

Tip 6. Break the binge-starve cycle

Ok, so what if you overate at dinner the night before? I’ve done it. And the thought I’ve had was,”Oi, I overate at dinner last night, so I'll just skip breakfast.” Yeah it didn’t turn out well for me, because I ended up starving by lunch time. So I wouldn’t encourage any one to do this. It's likely you're going to overindulge in your next meal.

  • Instead, do a quick, light activity: a walk, a yoga sesh, shoot some hoops if you want. Still have breakfast: it can be light and nutritious and then let the games begin for the next meal (with portion control in mind).

Tip 7. (Lucky #7) Opt for low-sugar drinks

Hey, it’s a time of festivities and cocktails are in the air. Familiarize yourself with your drink of choice and find out how much sugar it contains. Maybe there’s a healthier, low-sugar alternative. If there is, drink that instead! It’s a win-win: you stick with keeping sugar content low in your diet and you still get to enjoy a drink.

On that note, Cheers!

Last but not least, travel safe, don’t forget your mask and practice social distancing!

In wellness,

Val

 

P.S. If you are looking for any help or support to keep you accountable during your wellness journey, feel free to reach out to me for a consultation! Just click the link below to schedule!